North Dakota State University (NDSU) has locked in its men's basketball roster for the 2026‑27 season, a move that sets the stage for a team built around continuity and fresh energy. The Bison will be anchored by returning starter Andy Stefonowicz, the only player who started every game a year ago, while Coach Dave Richman has emphasized his leadership and assertiveness on the court.
Two new faces join the mix: 6‑foot‑8 forward Karl Poom, who arrives from Northern Arizona University after a season that yielded 8.9 points and 3.3 rebounds per game, and 6‑7 guard Santiago Paz Vazquez, a native of Santiago de Compostela, Spain, who brings a perimeter skill set from his stint at the University of San Francisco.
The roster blends experience with youth, comprising six transfers, five true freshmen, and returning players Riley Massey and Carson Smith. Among the newcomers, freshman forward Colin Stack stands out at 7‑foot, adding a rare interior presence, while the team’s height generally ranges from 6‑6 to 6‑9.
Summer Workouts and Health Focus
Since the start of summer, most of the squad has been on campus, participating in a four‑week conditioning program designed to keep players healthy and fresh for the upcoming campaign. Coach Richman has repeatedly stressed the importance of maintaining physical readiness, noting that a fully fit lineup could be the difference between contending for another Summit League title and falling short.
The Bison’s recent history provides a optimistic backdrop. A season ago, NDSU posted a program‑record 27‑8 record, captured the Summit League championship, and earned a berth in the NCAA tournament. Coach Richman, now in his second year at the helm, acknowledges the need to fine‑tune personality dynamics but remains confident that the chemistry forged during the summer will translate into on‑court success.